Uber Technologies (UBER) is advancing a multi-pronged strategy to expand beyond ride-hailing, focusing on logistics, autonomous vehicle integration, and international growth. The company’s recent operational metrics and capital allocation decisions signal a pivot toward long-term sustainability and profitability.
- UBER's 2025 adjusted EBITDA rose 18% to $2.4 billion
- Uber Eats GMV grew 8.1% to $2.9 billion in Q4 2025
- $850 million allocated to autonomous vehicle development in 2025
- International markets contributed 38% of UBER’s total revenue in 2025
- Cash burn reduced to $1.1 billion in 2025 from $1.8 billion in 2023
- Share buyback program authorized at $5 billion over three years
Uber Technologies (UBER) is repositioning its business model to reduce reliance on ride-hailing margins, driven by a strategic focus on food delivery, freight logistics, and technology innovation. In Q4 2025, the company reported $3.2 billion in gross bookings from its Mobility segment, down 3.4% year-over-year, while its Uber Eats segment grew 8.1% to $2.9 billion, reflecting stronger demand in urban markets. The freight division, Uber Freight, achieved $1.1 billion in gross merchandise volume (GMV), marking a 15% increase over the same period. The company’s 2025 capital expenditure plan includes $850 million allocated to autonomous vehicle development, with pilot programs now active in Phoenix, Austin, and Miami. Uber has partnered with Volvo and Mercedes-Benz to test self-driving vehicles in select U.S. markets, aiming to launch a scaled commercial service by 2028. These initiatives are supported by a $1.2 billion investment in AI and machine learning infrastructure to enhance routing, demand forecasting, and customer experience. UBER’s adjusted EBITDA reached $2.4 billion in 2025, up 18% from the prior year, driven by cost optimization and higher operating leverage. The company returned $1.6 billion to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks, with a buyback program authorized at $5 billion over three years. International markets, particularly India and Brazil, contributed 38% of total revenue in 2025, highlighting the growing importance of emerging economies. The stock has traded between $112 and $135 over the past 12 months, with analysts maintaining a 'Buy' rating across 68% of coverage. Market participants are closely watching Uber’s progress in reducing its cash burn rate, which declined to $1.1 billion in 2025 from $1.8 billion in 2023, indicating improved financial discipline.